The House of Representatives advanced a bill to end the government shutdown through a key test vote on Wednesday, bringing the measure closer to final passage and potential presidential approval. The shutdown, which has lasted 43 days, appears to be on a path to resolution after a critical procedural hurdle. The legislation, aimed at restoring federal funding, is now expected to reach President Donald Trump’s desk as early as Wednesday night, possibly ending the longest government shutdown in U.S. history.
The White House announced that Trump would sign the bill, signaling a major step toward resolution. However, the bill has faced significant criticism from Democrats, who argue it fails to address the expiration of enhanced healthcare subsidies under the Affordable Care Act. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries emphasized the frustration of Democratic leaders, who believe the bill does not adequately address the Republican-led healthcare crisis. Despite these concerns, the bill’s passage marks progress in resolving the funding crisis, though the political fallout continues as opposition from progressive Democrats intensifies. The final House vote is set for this evening, with bipartisan support possible among moderates.
The shutdown has had severe effects on the nation, exacerbating issues such as staffing shortages in critical agencies like the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and affecting millions of Americans reliant on federal benefits. The ongoing crisis has prompted calls for urgency, with the Senate playing a key role in reaching a compromise. The Senate’s approval of the bill, which included a side deal for a future vote on extending healthcare subsidies, highlights the political negotiations that have shaped the resolution. The House, however, has not made similar promises, further alienating progressive Democrats who view the compromise as insufficient. As the bill moves to final passage, the financial and political ramifications of the shutdown continue to unfold, with both parties facing scrutiny over their handling of the crisis.